Gyan Mudra—Mudra of Celestial Knowledge and Inner Peace

The Gyan Mudra (or position of the hand; “seal” in Sanskrit) is one of the most popularly practiced mudras because of its healing and calming effects. It is known to energize the nervous system while bringing peace, calm, and spiritual awareness.

Enhancing knowledge and rejuvenating all the nerves in the body, this mudra is a cure for all diseases with the origin of a weak nervous system. With consistant practice, it is said that the power of your memory increases, concentration is solidified, and a great calmness assists in meditation.

You can practice this mudra at any time: day or night, while in meditation, or simply while you’re falling asleep as it also prevents insomnia.

Engage this position by lightly touching the tip of the thumb to the tip of the index finger, with your other three fingers straight up. Almost like the “OK” sign, but the three fingers are touching each other.

This mudra is known to stimulate the brain, empower the mind, and activate the pituitary gland. It stimulates the endrocrine system and physically soothes achey joints.

How Does the Gyan Mudra Work?

Your hands are full of meridians and energy centers, like an electrical energy base. The tip of thumb activates centers of pituitary and endocrine glands. When these two centers are connected with the index finger, the two glands are energized.

The Gyan mudra stimulates the root chakra bringing relief to pressure brought on by material fears easing depression while assisting in expansion and knowledge. It is considered a direct link to relaxation for meditation and openness to Spirit.

Engaging in the Gyan mudra and placing your palms face down, this mudra grounds and roots your energy to earth. Directing the palms outward connects you with Universal knowledge.

This position brings Oneness Awareness to the practitioner. Practiced consistently, it heals psychological disorders: mental disorders, anxiety, anger, and depression.

Fingers and Corresponding Properties

Thumb

Earth element • Planet Saturn • Corresponds to Stomach, Spleen, Mouth. It is connected to the intellect (Yi) influencing clarity.

Index finger

Wood element • Planet Jupiter • Corresponds to Liver, Gall Bladder, Eyes. It is connected to the ethereal soul (Hun) influincing sensitivity.

Middle finger

Fire element • Planet Mars • Corresponds to Heart, Small Intestine, Tongue. It is connected to the aggregate soul (Shen) influencing creativity.

Ring finger

Metal element • Planet Venus • Corresponds to Lungs, Large Intestine, Nose. It is connected to the corporeal soul (Po) influencing intuition.

Pinky

Water element • Planet Mercury • Corresponds to Kidney, Bladder, Ears. It is connected to the will (Zhi) influencing spontaneity.